Islet Cell Transplant

University Medical Center prides itself on its ability to provide cutting edge procedures to its patient population. Islet cell transplantation is one of those procedures. For those suffering from diabetes, pancreas transplant is no longer the only option to become insulin independent. Through an infusion of islet cells placed directly in the liver, patients who have too high of a surgical risk to undergo pancreas transplant can now live free of insulin injections. This minimally invasive procedure can give patients a new lease on life.

University Medical Center is the only transplant center in the Southwest that is currently offering islet cell transplantation. As with any other transplant procedure, islet cell recipients will have access to comprehensive, multidisciplinary care provided by our renowned surgeons, physicians, nurses and support staff. UMC is also one of the few centers in the nation that can offer simultaneous pancreatectomy with islet cell transplantation for those suffering from chronic pancreatitis. 

Why do I need an Islet Cell Transplant?

Those patients who require an islet cell transplant will typically have the same issues as those patients requiring a pancreas transplant. The primary indication for pancreas transplant is uncontrollable diabetes. For these patients, no matter how hard they try, they simply cannot control their blood sugar levels. This leads to frequent episodes of hypoglycemic unawareness, and a lifetime of dependence on family members and loved ones. Islet cell transplantation offers patients a less invasive surgical option and an option for patients who would be unable to undergo general anesthesia.

Procedures

Islet Cell transplant is a complex and in depth procedure. At UMC, our interest is with the patient, and as such, we require specific testing to make sure that transplant is the very best option for each patient. A patient that is referred to the Islet Cell transplant program at UMC can expect to undergo various procedures for transplant surgery clearance.

These tests will be scheduled by your transplant coordinator, and will be performed at UMC. If you are a woman, you will require an annual pap smear, and if you are over 50, you will need a mammogram. The results of the above tests may indicate further testing to verify that transplantation is the absolute best option for you as a patient. Your transplant coordinator can assist with this. 

Pancreatic Disease

To learn more about the diseases of the pancreas, see the National Pancreas Foundation